A taxonomy of emotional functioning problems: A good idea in need of more research.

Abstract

Berenbaum and colleagues (2003; this issue) present a framework to categorize emotional functioning difficulties, which they argue provides incremental validity beyond the diagnostic nosology. The taxonomy offered has considerable heuristic value. A taxonomy of emotional repertoires offers the possibility of targeting emotional experience and expression problems, independent of diagnostic labels. Given the extensive research on emotion in psychopathology, it seems timely to consider assessment schemes that would force clinicians to consider emotional repertoires in clinical decision making about what to target (and when) and whether a given type of intervention is indicated. However, it is unclear whether, at present, specific, functional emotional-processing difficulties can be reliably and validly assessed. This commentary focuses on several features of the taxonomy that require clarification and underscores the need for more research. In addition, the applicability of the model to trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is discussed.